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Ed - supported by UWE Cares

Ed (not his real name) is a care leaver studying at
UWE Bristol. He shares his story about his childhood, coming to
university and the support he received from UWE Cares.

Being in care was not always a good experience

“I lived in foster care and faced lots of tough challenges
before coming to university. Being in care was not always a good
experience, and the memories of these experiences still hang over
me a lot.

"I found school really difficult. I was excluded a lot. I was
very angry and school was a place where I could let this out. I
thought I was stupid. Fortunately for me, I met my current partner,
who is excellent at raising aspirations. I started an access
course, where I learnt to write my first assignment! This helped me
realise that I was good enough and could achieve what I wanted and
go to university. When I was younger, I didn't think I could.

UWE Bristol has created a real enjoyment of learning

"I remember applying for university, and avidly believing I
would not get in. I then got offered an interview and again thought
I wouldn't get in, but I did. When I started at UWE Bristol, I
thought, I'll fail this assignment. I didn't and with the help of a
really supportive academic tutor, I am now doing very well. I would
now like to do a Masters and possibly a doctorate because UWE
Bristol has created a real enjoyment of learning within me.

UWE Cares has been an excellent form of support

"During my time at university, I have faced lots of issues from
bereavement to housing problems. UWE Cares has been an excellent
form of support, for example they helped me find somewhere to live
over Christmas. It has been really helpful and reassuring knowing
that they are there to help and they want me to succeed and enjoy
my time at university.

"I'm not big on asking for help, but if you need it, UWE Cares
are great. They really do care and I’d definitely encourage other
students like me to get in touch with them.”

Support from UWE Cares

Find out about the UWE Cares package
of support and how we can support carers, care leavers and
estranged students.